With Memorial Day approaching, people all over are preparing to open their pools for the season.
Clothing lines everywhere are advertising this season's hot bikini and bathing suit trends. But for a lot of women, this isn't their favorite time of the year.
Young girls and women are constantly bombarded with airbrushed images of models with perfectly toned abs and beautifully styled hair.
Although these women are undeniably gorgeous, they don't resonate with the average woman. These images don't make the average woman want to slip into a skimpy two-piece; they make her want to find the nearest cover-up.
Aerie decided to do something about that by introducing the #AerieReal campaign in 2014. The incredible movement inspires women to embrace their bodies instead of aspiring to impossible standards.
Instead of airbrushing away their models' "flaws," they advertise their clothing on models of all shapes and sizes that haven't been retouched.
In a world where online shopping is quickly replacing the need to go out and shop, Aerie is reconnecting with young women on a personal level and seeing increased profit and success due to their positive message.
Scroll down to see Aerie's incredible, un-retouched images, and let us know what you think of the #AerieReal campaign in the comments!
Is your body beach ready? According to Aerie, that answer should always be a resounding "Yes!"
Aerie's #AerieReal campaign began in 2014.
The purpose of the campaign was to share images of un-retouched models that have visible "flaws," like the women shopping in their stores.
Aerie's President Jennifer Foyle sat her team down to have a conversation about women's ideals.
What do young women today strive for?
Today's woman is empowered and self-assured, so why are we still seeing so many airbrushed images of women in advertisements and campaigns?
Aerie decided to put down the airbrush and put real models out there for everyone to see, dimply thighs and all.
The campaign has been extremely successful for the American Eagle brand.
In the first fiscal year after Aerie introduced its body acceptance campaign, sales grew by 20 percent!
The store's progress has no signs of stopping any time soon.
In the first quarter of 2016 alone, Aerie's sales rose 32 percent, blowing past the goal that analysts had first expected.
American Eagle's CEO Jay Schottenstein told analysts, "Aerie has a long runway ahead and I believe this is one of the most exciting and emerging brands in retail today."
Judging by the countless positive comments seen across social media, American Eagle's CEO is absolutely right.
Women all over have been uploading happy, vibrant images of themselves having fun in the sun and proudly tagging the #AerieReal campaign.
Instead of worrying about that stubborn belly fat, stretch marks, or unkempt hair this summer, take a tip from Aerie's campaign and just enjoy being you.
Have you been following the #AerieReal campaign? We'd love to know what you think in the comments, and don't forget to SHARE with anyone (a.k.a. everyone) who is beach body ready!
